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Dictionary definition of syncopate

To accent the weak beats and de-emphasize the strong beats in music, speech, or other forms of sound.
"The drummer's skillful hands syncopate the rhythm effortlessly."

Detailed meaning of syncopate

This creates an irregular or syncopated rhythm that can add a sense of energy and excitement to the music. It is often used in jazz, funk, and other forms of popular music, to create a sense of syncopation. In jazz, syncopation is used to create a sense of swing, which is a characteristic rhythmic feel that gives the music a sense of forward motion. Syncopation can also be used to create a sense of dissonance or tension in the music, by creating a conflict between the rhythms of different parts of the music. In general, syncopation is used to create a sense of rhythmic complexity and interest in the music, and it is one of the fundamental elements of many styles of music.

Example sentences of syncopate

1. Jazz drummers often syncopate rhythms to create a lively, unpredictable groove.
2. The dancer's movements syncopate with the pulsating music, mesmerizing the audience.
3. To spice up their salsa routine, they decided to syncopate their steps expertly.
4. His guitar playing can effortlessly syncopate notes, adding depth to the melody.
5. In hip-hop, rappers frequently syncopate their lyrics for a more dynamic flow.
6. The DJ's job is to syncopate the beats and keep the partygoers on their toes.

History and etymology of syncopate

The verb 'syncopate' has an etymology that leads us to Latin and Greek origins. It is derived from the Greek word 'synkoptein,' which means 'to cut short' or 'to cut up.' This Greek term was later adapted into Latin as 'syncopare,' which carried a similar meaning. In the realm of music and rhythm, 'syncopation' involves emphasizing the normally weak or offbeat notes or rhythms, creating a rhythmic pattern that goes against the expected strong beats. This technique adds complexity and interest to music, creating a sense of unpredictability and movement. In speech and language, syncopation may involve shortening or altering the pronunciation of words for various stylistic or linguistic effects. Therefore, the etymology of 'syncopate' reflects its historical connection to the idea of cutting short or altering rhythmic patterns, which remains central to its usage in music, speech, and other forms of sound, as conveyed by its linguistic heritage.

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Further usage examples of syncopate

1. Syncopate the piano chords to infuse a sense of urgency into the composition.
2. Speech therapists often teach clients to syncopate speech patterns for clarity.
3. Latin percussionists excel at syncopating rhythms to ignite the dance floor.
4. As the conductor, she directed the orchestra to syncopate the symphony's tempo.
5. Mastering how to syncopate vocals can make a song truly unforgettable.
6. The music instructor teaches students how to syncopate their piano playing.
7. The jazz band uses syncopation to create a lively and energetic sound.
8. The dancer's movements syncopate with the beat of the music.
9. The percussion section syncopates the rhythm to add depth and complexity.
10. The guitarist knows how to syncopate his strumming to create a groovy melody.
11. The conductor instructs the orchestra to syncopate their playing for a unique effect.
12. The singer's voice seems to naturally syncopate with the background music.
13. The jazz pianist skillfully syncopates the chords, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
14. The drummers in the parade syncopate their beats to keep the crowd entertained.
15. The dancers synchronize their steps and syncopate their movements in perfect harmony.
16. The DJ uses electronic beats to syncopate the rhythm and get the crowd dancing.
17. The Latin band incorporates syncopation into their music to create a lively and infectious groove.
18. The composer's use of syncopated rhythms adds a modern twist to the classical piece.
19. The drummer's ability to syncopate on the fly impresses everyone in the band.
20. The dancers showcase their skills as they syncopate their footwork with the music.
21. The syncopated bass line sets the foundation for the energetic funk song.
22. The percussionist uses various instruments to syncopate the rhythm and add texture to the song.
23. The jazz singer's voice effortlessly syncopates with the swinging band.
24. The choreographer instructs the dancers to syncopate their movements for a dynamic performance.